Tatum Surpasses Kobe Bryant on NBA Playoffs 3-Pointers List

Celtics star Jayson Tatum moved into 11th place on the all-time NBA Playoffs 3-pointers list, passing his idol Kobe Bryant.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 10:03pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In the Boston Celtics' Game 1 win over the Philadelphia 76ers, Jayson Tatum scored 25 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. In the process, he surpassed his idol Kobe Bryant on the NBA Playoffs all-time 3-pointers list, moving into 11th place with his 293rd career playoff 3-pointer.

Why it matters

Tatum's milestone achievement is a testament to his growth as a player and his continued ascent among the NBA's elite. Passing Bryant, one of Tatum's basketball heroes, on this prestigious list adds to the young star's legacy and underscores his importance to the Celtics' championship aspirations.

The details

Tatum's 293rd career playoff 3-pointer came in the second quarter of the Celtics' 123-91 blowout win over the 76ers. He finished the game with 25 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assists, while shooting 9-of-17 from the field and 1-of-7 from 3-point range. Tatum, who returned from an Achilles injury last month, is now just two 3-pointers away from passing former NBA star J.R. Smith for 10th place on the all-time playoff 3-pointers list.

  • Tatum's milestone 293rd playoff 3-pointer occurred in the second quarter of Game 1 against the 76ers on April 19, 2026.
  • Tatum returned from his Achilles injury last month and is now rounding into form for the Celtics' playoff run.

The players

Jayson Tatum

The Boston Celtics' star forward, who is in his eighth NBA season. Tatum is a perennial All-Star and one of the league's top two-way players.

Kobe Bryant

The late, great Los Angeles Lakers legend who is one of Jayson Tatum's basketball idols. Bryant is considered one of the greatest players in NBA history.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Tatum and the Celtics will look to take a 2-0 series lead when they host the 76ers in Game 2 on Tuesday evening in Boston.

The takeaway

Jayson Tatum's impressive performance and historic milestone in the Celtics' Game 1 win over the 76ers underscores his status as one of the NBA's brightest young stars. His ability to surpass his idol Kobe Bryant on the all-time playoff 3-pointers list is a testament to Tatum's relentless work ethic and dedication to his craft, which have helped him bounce back from a serious Achilles injury.